Can You Die From Touching A Salamander?

Adult Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens on forest floor

Salamanders are soft-skinned amphibians that often live in wet, quiet places. Their gentle appearance and slow movements may seem harmless, but some people wonder whether touching one could be dangerous or even deadly. No, you can not die from simply touching a salamander, but some species produce toxins that can irritate your skin or cause … Read more

Is It Legal To Own A Salamander?

Group of Ringed Salamander Ambystoma annulatum in a container

Salamanders are quiet amphibians with strange shapes and soft skin. They come in many sizes and colors. Their slow movements and secretive nature make them interesting to some people as pets. But many wonder if it is legal to keep one at home. In many places, it is legal to own a salamander, but only … Read more

Can You Own A Salamander In California?

Young Western Tiger Salamander Ambystoma mavortium (2)

Salamanders are really interesting amphibians with unusual habits and cool biology. Lots of people want to keep them as pets. But if you live in California, you might wonder if it’s even allowed. The state has strict rules to protect wildlife and the environment, which can affect what animals you are allowed to keep. In … Read more

Can You Adopt A Salamander?

Northern Slimy Salamander Plethodon glutinosus 1

Salamanders move quietly through wet leaves and soft soil. They rarely draw attention. With their smooth skin, slow pace, and secretive ways, they seem almost invisible. Yet some people find them fascinating and wonder: can you adopt a salamander? Yes, you can adopt a salamander, but only certain species and only if you follow legal … Read more

What Are Juvenile Salamanders Called?

Blue-spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale on a transparent floor

Salamanders are amphibians with unusual lifecycles. They start as eggs, then grow into larvae, juveniles, and finally adults. Each stage looks and behaves differently, which can confuse people who are not familiar with the terms. So, what are young salamanders called during these early stages of life? While still in water and breathing through gills, … Read more

Why Are There Salamanders In My House?

Eastern Red-backed Salamander Plethodon cinereus on a wooden table

Salamanders are interesting amphibians that usually live outside in moist forests, wetlands, and near streams. But sometimes, people find them inside their homes. Why do salamanders come indoors? Does it mean something is wrong? Most salamanders that come inside are looking for moisture, shelter, or cooler temperatures. Their presence usually shows that damp areas are … Read more

Why Are Salamanders Indicator Species?

Do Salamanders Need Light?

Salamanders are amazing animals that live in forests, wetlands, and streams. They have moist skin that lets them absorb water and breathe in part through it. You might wonder what makes them special, and why people say salamanders are good signs of environmental health. Salamanders are indicator species because their presence, how many there are, … Read more

What Salamanders Are Fully Aquatic?

Western Lesser Siren Siren nettingi in a pond

Salamanders are quiet, secretive creatures that tend to avoid attention. They live in damp forests, under rocks, or near streams, moving slowly and carefully through their surroundings. This leads to a clear question: what salamanders are fully aquatic, and how do they live differently from the rest? Fully aquatic salamanders include axolotls, sirens, amphiumas, mudpuppies, … Read more

Where Did Fire Salamanders Get Their Name?

Fire Salamander in water

Fire salamanders are some of the most well-known salamanders because of their bright black and yellow colors. Their bold patterns often make people think of fire and flames. But have you ever wondered where their name came from? Fire salamanders got their name from their bright yellow and black colors. These colors look like flickering … Read more